Analysis of IL-29 / IFNL1 / IL29 by ELISA (CAT#: STEM-MB-1550-LGZ)

Introduction

Interleukin-29 (IL-29), also known as interferon λ1(IFN-λ1), is a member of the spiral cytokine family and is a type III interferon. Its amino acid sequence is highly similar to that of another type III interferon, IL-28. The IL-29 gene is found on human chromosome 19, but not in the mouse genome. IL-29 plays an important role in host defense against microorganisms, and its gene is highly upregulated in virus-infected cells. IL-29 has significant antiviral activity and immunomodulatory properties that inhibit viral replication by inducing a cellular antiviral response similar to that activated by IFN-α/β. However, IL-29 binds to a unique receptor, so it may act synergically with IFN-α/β or IFN-γ to inhibit viral replication during natural infection, or in combination with other cytokines to treat chronic viral infections such as hepatitis C (HCV). The antiviral activity of IL-29 includes up-regulation of Class I MHC expression on the cell surface and PKR expression. The ligand/receptor complex appears to conduct signaling through the Jak-STAT pathway.